Children are calling for a better understanding of epilepsy within mainstream schools, claims a report supported by Yeadon-based charity Epilepsy Action.

The report "Understanding of epilepsy by children with, or without, epilepsy" by researchers at the School of Education at Birmingham University, looks at how children think and feel about epilepsy.

The research found that most children with epilepsy have a clear understanding of the condition. However, the findings also indicate that children want teachers and classmates, along with other adults around them, to gain more knowledge of the condition.

Children feel that adults would be better placed to support their epilepsy if they openly discussed the condition and listened to the views of children.

Although the research showed that children with epilepsy do worry about the stigma surrounding the condition, it also found children without epilepsy would like to know more about the condition and what they should do if a classmate has a seizure.

Professor Ann Lewis, who led the research, said: "The predominant message from the report is that children want accurate and helpful information about epilepsy to be available and discussed in school and other social groups.

"In addition, children want this information to be provided through mainstream contexts such as TV programmes, the Internet, celebrity spokespeople and magazines."

Epilepsy Action believes that if communities were more proactive about raising awareness of epilepsy, this would greatly help children and young people who are living with the condition feel like valued members of society.

The full report and recommendations is published by Epilepsy Action and is available for viewing at www.epilepsy.org.uk/research